Hi, I'm Gail, and I own a bridal shop in Bethel, Connecticut since 1987, and I would like to share my experiences and knowledge with you.

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Pantone just released 10 colors for spring 2016 few days ago and those are just perfect for spring weddings as well. As one of the most important events in our lives, our weddings surely deserve second consideration on every part, especially the wedding color schemes. “Colors this season transport us to a happier, sunnier place where we feel free to express a wittier version of our real selves”, said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. This spring we’ll see some breathtaking wedding color ideas with these colors. Check out the following trending wedding color palettes in spring 2016.

Pink is a classic color used in wedding decorations and the first trending wedding color in 2016 is Rose Quartz, which is a shade of pink color. “The soothing, calming nature of colors in the Spring collections are led by Rose Quartz, a persuasive yet gentle tone that conveys compassion and a sense of composure”, by Pantone.

As a shade of orange, Peach Echo is another trending wedding color in the year 2016, which emanates friendlier qualities, evoking warmth and accessibility. Matched with pink and gold will successfully add a touch of romance to it.

“A maritime-inspired blue, Snorkel Blue plays in the navy family, but with a happier, more energetic context”, by Pantone. Adding some chocolate brown or other neutral colors if you’re planning a chic rustic wedding theme.

“While the majority of the Spring/Summer palette trends toward calmness, a few diversions from the theme emerge that offer a contrast. With Buttercup designers reveal a shining beacon transporting its wearer to a happier, sunnier place”, said by Pantone. I added some purple to make them a perfect match.

You want your photographer to be on the cutting edge and know the latest techniques, but you also don’t want your photos to be so trendy that when you look at your shots in 20 years, all you see is something that instantly dates your wedding. Here are shots that are totally now — but will still look current when your kids get married!

Shooting the Proposal

Some savvy grooms are hiring photographers to document their proposal so that wonderful-but-fleeting moment can be relived later by the couple and shared with friends and family. Photographer Danny Weiss says this trend is growing quickly, and he loves being a part of it. “I’ll never forget one proposal I shot in Central Park in New York City, in the dead of winter. It felt like it was just me and the couple in the park, and I got really great images,” he says.

Incorporating Instagram

Creating a wedding hashtag for guests to use to upload photos to Instagram and Twitter can help you experience your wedding through their eyes. Apps, like Artifact Uprising, are also allowing smartphone users to then upload those photos from Instagram and create actual printed hardcover books (not to mention calendars and postcards) of their instant artworks. “I even use their products as little preview books for clients,” says photographer Corbin Gurkin of Corbin Gurkin Photography.

Brady Bunch-Style Bridal Party Photos

Some creative photographers are taking photos of the wedding party separately and then creating playful graphic grid designs in photo albums later. “It’s great because those closest to you put a lot of time and money into being a part of the wedding, and it’s a nice gesture to provide them with a gift portrait after the festivities are over,” says photographer Mel Barlow of Mel & Co.

Stop-Motion Wedding Photo Film

This form of photography takes still photos and animates them, generally in a video set to your choice of music. “I’ve done a series like this for a quick set of 10 to 20 images and put them all together on a wedding album page, and the result was pretty cool!” says Caroline Winata of Milou & Olin Photography. Stop motion works especially well for a short trailer to put on your Facebook page or to send around in an email to close friends.

Bridal Portraits

Brides are scheduling bridal portrait sessions in their dresses before the wedding day or allotting time on the day of to take formal portraits of themselves. “You’re spending all this time and effort on your look and it’s nice to document it properly,” says photographer Denise Chastain of Denise Chastain Photography. Another twist? Formal couple portraits, which show posed, traditionally styled shots of the couple.

Dreamy Film Images

Like backlit photos, film images are super-romantic and are making a mega-comeback in the cyclical world of wedding photography. “I think film is a perfect fit for both décor and portraits,” Gurkin says. But don’t feel like you have to limit your shooter solely to film. “I still prefer the versatility of digital in low light or on a rainy wedding day,” Gurkin adds.

Father-Daughter First Looks

The first-look photo has been popular for a while now (see: “Should you do a first look?”) and is still going strong. But some brides are having photographers capture their dad’s first glimpse of them in white as well. “This trend has deep Southern roots and is definitely a sweet moment during the day. Wedding days can be so busy, and I love that some girls choose to take a few minutes to spend time with their dads,” says Genya Garrett of Vue Photography.

Photo Booths with Social Media Integration

In addition to better props (think: vintage finds rather than dollar-store pickups), photo booths are going high-tech, with touch screens and Wi-Fi, allowing guests to immediately upload photos to social media, says Matthew Lee of Cly Creation. Why wait until tomorrow to upload photo-booth snaps when it can be done instantly?

Showing Family Photographs

Do you want to show sentimental or funny family photos at your reception? If so, you’ll find you’re in good company with some other on-trend couples and photographers. “I did it at my own wedding and see it at many weddings I photograph,” says Weiss. “To me, weddings are about bringing together different generations. That’s why I love having photos of grandparents, parents and others to tie it all together.”

Backlit Photos

Using natural light coming in from behind a couple creates über-romantic images. “To achieve this look, you shoot when the sun is setting or rising — when the light is soft and warm, which flatters the subject. “It’s all about the ambience,” says Lee. “When you take a stroll early in the morning or at sunset time, everything looks great and romantic.” This is a perfect example of relying on Mother Nature — not filters — for gorgeous photography.

Day-After Shoots

Wedding days are crazy-busy and photographers do their best to get every shot you’d like in the bank. But day-after shoots can help them hit all their marks, and are gaining popularity with conscientious couples. “Day-after shoots are also a great idea if you want to shoot in a location that’s different from your wedding venue or if time is a factor and lighting becomes an issue,” Gurkin says.

Casual Family Photos

Family portraits tend to be some of the more unnatural shots in a bridal album. Seriously — when do you ever stand in a straight line, with perfect posture, all looking in the same direction, in real life? “Casual family photos are a great new trend because they bring out more relaxed emotions, which can ease tension during family portraits,” says Barlow. “They usually take place during emotionally charged times, either right before or right after a wedding ceremony, so anything that keeps the stress level down will usually result in better photos.” Your photographer should try unique locations, or catch people hugging and chatting — being a family instead of moonlighting as models. A more formal shot that’s still relaxed? Have everyone join arms in a casual group hug.

Overhead Shots

Whether you have your photographer take aerial shots of just you two or everyone at your wedding, this is an effective way to capture the spirit of the day. “I’m all about interesting angles, so if there’s an overhead vantage point — especially of the reception tables — I love taking this shot,” Gurkin says.

#Selfie Shots

Some social-media-savvy couples are setting up “selfie stations” for their friends and family (a pretty backdrop to shoot themselves having a great time at your wedding). “As a photographer seeking out authentic moments to document, guest selfies can add to a fun and spontaneous atmosphere at any wedding,” Gurkin says.

1. All The Lights

Lighting is perhaps the one element that can transform the feel of your wedding instantly.

Whether you have a budget for lighting production, you speak to your venue about what they can offer or you simply reuse your fairy lights from Christmas, carefully considering how to best light your space, will work wonders on romancing your guests.

2. Valentine Vows

Your wedding ceremony sets the tone for the rest of the day, and is one of the parts where you can really guide the atmosphere.

Opting for really romantic ceremony readings, personal vows, and unique ideas like a family blessing of the rings, a hand-tying ceremony, planting a tree or lighting a unity candle, all add to the loving vibes. And get your guests involved from the start.

3. Scentscape Your Day

Scentscaping (yes, it’s a thing!) is a huge buzzword in luxury weddings, but can also be adapted on a budget for any big day. Smell is perhaps the most powerful sense for evoking emotion, but it’s often overlooked for weddings (understandably) in favour of food, music, and the look of the day.

Companies like Gemma Hopkins’, Design In Scent can create a gorgeous bespoke scent that will become the fragrance backdrop to your day. For a DIY version, think verbena candles, lavender centrepieces or freesia bouquets. A wedding that smells as good as it looks is steeped in romance!

4. Ambient Music

Of course at some point your guests are going to want to hit the dancefloor and Shake It Off to Taylor Swift. But before that, your wedding music can go a long way to setting the feel for your day.

Choose personal, un-cliched songs, with a dreamy feel for your ceremony, cocktail hour, over dinner, and for your first dance. You can even include some slow sets throughout the evening for the couples! (Check out our Valentine’s playlist for inspiration!)

5. A Romantic Feast

Your choice of food and how you serve it can be a big help in creating a romantic atmosphere at your wedding. We’re not saying you need to woo your guests with oysters and dark chocolate – though I’m sure they wouldn’t mind!

6. Love Seats

As with the catering, planning your tables to create an intimate, chatty atmosphere will absolutely amp up the romance at your wedding.

There’s something really special about long dining tables, that creates a closer, familiar feel over the more formal round variety or top table set-up. Choosing a sweetheart table will also give you and your other have a chance to have your own romantic dinner for two at your wedding.

7. A Wow Venue

Choose a romantic wedding venue, and all the hard work is done for you!

A medieval castle, a beautiful glasshouse, a pretty garden, or an atmospheric old church; take a stunning venue, add some candles (see below) and et voila, you’ve got yourself a seriously romantic setting.

8. A Touch of Whimsy

Sometimes your guests might feel more like they’re witnessing your romance than feeling it for themselves. But adding an element that’s fun and sweet, will soon get them involved in your day.

We love the idea of this balloon march from one venue to the next, (with a release at the end!), you could also have a waltz lesson, an open mic for toasts or some fun games to bring your guests together and feeling the love.

20 influential wedding bloggers share their thoughts with on wedding trends they personally feel will emerge in 2013. Below are their opinions and predictions. How many do you agree with?

20. Patterns will be hot

For 2013, I think that incorporating patterns into wedding day decor is going to be HOT! I think we’ll surely continue to see chevron and stripes used on everything from table runners to bowties. However, I think we’ll also start to see more and more gingham, paisley and even polka dots. Because what’s not to love? They truly do add a bit of fun and a touch of whimsy. I’m imaging bridesmaids in striped skirts, and groomsmen with paisley ties. There really are so many possibilities when it comes to patterns and we’re so excited to see where they’ll turn up for weddings in 2013! – [Chrissy, The Perfect Palette]

19. The Reception Lounge

The reception “lounge” is a wedding trend we’ve seen begin to take off in 2012 and expect to see back even stronger in 2013. It offers an away from the dance floor area for guests to eat, drink and mingle in a relaxed setting. From a groom’s perspective, the lounge is a perfect spot to feature a favorite microbrew, signature cocktail or finger food. If you’re planning to include a photo booth, any yard or table games or a build-your-own drink station – the lounge is the place to do it. As always guys, be sure to talk ideas over with your fiancé before you commit.- [Chris, The Man Registry]

18. Prints charming

In my book, prints will be a key trend for 2013 weddings. We’ve already seen a few of these starting to come through, but next year I think this will really catch on– everything from the stripes and chevron of 2012 to delicate florals and bold graphic prints. Look out for print fabrics used as table runners and napkins, print bridesmaids’ dresses (either as one of a mismatched grouping, or a striking collection) and even on groomsmen’s shirts or pocket handkerchiefs. Done right, it’s a great look, and if you tie it into your stationery well, can create a lovely ‘brand’ that brings the whole design of the wedding together. Just don’t go overboard or too matchy matchy – depending on the print itself, less is often more! – [Gaby, SouthBound Bride]

17. Lace, lace, lace

In my opinion, we’re going to see a lot of lace in 2013! Lace has been a mainstay in bridal fashion for centuries, but it seems to be making a comeback right now. From full-on lace dresses to just a touch here and there to accent a dress, lace has already started to appear on the runway. Many designers will be showcasing classic wedding gowns with lace details like lacy cap sleeves, illusion necklaces, contrasting color lace and more in their spring 2013 collections. My favorite thing about lace is that it’s not just for the gown – lace details in the wedding décor is becoming a hot trend, too. Lace can make an elegant statement anywhere from the invitation to the wedding cake. Lace details can be chic and sophisticated, or when paired with rustic or vintage elements, lace can become a bit more whimsical! – [Erika, Borrowed & Bleu]

16. Less Is More

I believe that weddings will become more stripped back and minimalistic. We have seen so much styling going on that I think in 2013 couples will want to get back to basics and let the wedding be more about them. So the old phrase ‘Less is More’ will come into play. Less details, less fuss. So simple minimalistic décor and more relaxed styling. Couples have become swamped with over stylistic wedding ideas so think minimalistic venues, simple flowers with stripped back table decoration, clean lines, simple rustic elements, un fussy ideas for a couple that want the wedding to be about them NOT the details and styling.- [Kelly, Boho Wedding Blog]

15. Virtual Guests

In 2013, technology will play in huge role in how couples will share their most precious moments with friends and family around the world. Live-stream weddings will continue to gain popularity and next year will be a defining year for this type of service. If a loved one cannot attend a wedding, couples will opt to “broadcast” their event and allow front row access to anyone, anywhere. It’s real-time streaming of a real life event. It’s a great idea for couples who want to include more and more people in the wedding. I often ask planning brides if this is something that they would consider, and most are not even aware that this is an option! Look for more live-stream weddings to emerge in 2013. – [Rachel, Austin Wedding Blog]

14. The Fun Factor

In 2013, couples will be putting an even bigger emphasis on fun! And that means, lots of creative food stations (i.e. mashed potato bars), snack stations (i.e. DIY Smores, popcorn) and late night goodies. Carnival foods such as snow cones, cotton candy & candy apples will be ever-popular for summer weddings, as will food trucks, ice cream trucks, french fry trucks and taco trucks. Late night barbecue will also be sizzlin’. Along with emphasising the fun factor with food, couples will continue to create make their cocktail hour and reception interactive with games such as corn hole, bocce ball & horseshoes. Entertainment will also get interactive, with couples hiring everything from live event artists, on-site poets and dance instructors to magicians & tarot card readers. To make the fun last even longer, the post-wedding after party where couples hire a bus or van to take guests to a local night club after the reception, will be big for 2013. – [Christina, Intimate Weddings]

13. Extended Wedding Receptions

One of the biggest trends of 2012 was the “After Party,” a party after the reception was officially over. The After Party came with its own music, food, and sometimes even wardrobe for friends of the bride and groom. Although many couples will be continuing that trend in 2013 others will be looking for ways to bring the younger vibe and fun to the wedding itself, without the expense of throwing a completely different second party. Look for receptions that last a tad bit longer so that couples can fit in a change in entertainment and the ever-popular food trucks. For some couples, receptions will be divided in to three distinct sections, the cocktail hour with low-key music and food, the dinner “hour” (actually two or three hours) with all the expected wedding traditions (except for the bouquet toss, which is on its way out and fast), and two to three hours of fun where it’s completely acceptable for Grandma and Grandpa to head on home. DJs and bands will be mixing together in new and interesting ways as couples use these longer receptions to try and please everyone. – [Marta, GigMasters]

12. Wedding Dresses… With Pockets

Finally, the wait is over! Pocket wedding dresses will break out in 2013 and brides everywhere will rejoice. Functional fashion is in and fashion designers are coming around to the idea of adding soft, dainty pockets to traditional and modern bridal wear. I recently spoke to a Very popular gown designer who dished that some very high-profile celebrities will be debuting pocket dresses in 2013. Honestly, I’m stunned it’s taken so long for this trend to go pseudo-mainstream. If your wedding is more than 6 months away, you might want to entertain the idea of a wedding dress… with pockets. – [Bridal Snob]

11. The Roaring Twenties

I think the biggest wedding trend for 2013 will be a 1920’s vintage look. The decadence and gayety of the era make it a perfect inspiration for a celebration like a wedding. Plus, with the popularity of shows such as Downtown Abbey and a remake of The Great Gatsby coming out, the 20’s will be roaring back into popular culture. The style of 20’s fashion is very romantic. Hallmarks of this look include dropped waist dresses and lace in soft colors of ivory. To channel this look through your accessories, try long strands of pearl necklaces or gold toned jewelry. Instead of a traditional veil you could wear a cloche style headpiece or a beaded headband with art deco details. – [Maggie, The Giving Bride]

10. Localized Weddings

As one year of wedding trends comes to a close another will emerge with vibrant ideas, new methods of entertaining guests and bits of eye candy that will set weddings apart as truly spectacular. These are the trends that will live on and become classic. As we are knee-deep in planning and prepping for marvelous 2013 weddings we look ahead to the localized wedding. You needn’t look too far past your hometown for preeminent wines, sea foods or fresh bounty from farmers or bakers. Caterers will see an increase of delectable menus that are thoughtful and sourced locally, showcasing the best of what’s to offer where their creativity can truly shine.

To truly give guests an incredibly unique experience {at often a fraction of the price for shipping foods cross-country or wine across The Pond}, couples can look to nearby family-run apple cideries for a fun approach to bubbly, to a regional winery to select a scrumptious blend to pair with dinner, or work with a farmer or chef to personalize favorite food elements in an elevated light. The focus will be on quality, not quantity, and a remarkable experience will ensue! – [Aleah + Nick, Valley & Co.]

9. grooms start spending

In 2013, we expect the average cost of a wedding to increase slightly, partly due to spending by the groom. As more grooms begin playing an active role in the planning details of their wedding (a growing trend we’ve seen over the past 2 years), certain items such as groom cakes, groom rings, accessories, intricate honeymoon plans and unique groom gifts could significantly impact most wedding budgets, causing engaged couples to ultimately spend more. Most of the grooms that we’ve spoken to state that their bride-to-be is totally on board for this increase in spending since it is as much his wedding as it is hers. – [Mason, WeddingStats.org]

8. A return to elegance

In 2013 we are going to see a return to elegance. 2012 weddings reflected the world economy with a shabby chic, ‘do it yourself’ kind of attitude but 2013 brides will draw inspiration from old world glamour with cinematic and literary influences like The Great Gatsby, Anna Karenina, Downton Abbey, and A Royal Affair. I expect to see decadent fabrics, corsets, ornate lace details, metallics, costume jewelry, and more formal receptions. This trend is already being reflected on red carpets and runways around the world and I can’t wait to see it find its way back into weddings again! – [Sara, Burnett’s Boards]

7. Custom Wedding Details

The hottest trend in Australia right now is customisation to create a truly personal wedding day. We’re seeing more weddings at the one venue- not reception/ceremony ‘all in one’ function centres, mind you, but farms and large garden spaces, backyards and inner city, multi level venues. This extends to more unusual venues – art galleries, favourite upmarket cafe/gallery spaces, warehouses. I’m predicting more and more couples opting for blank slates they can truly customise to their own style and vision. This can be through asking a wedding stylist to create a bespoke occasion, or making and creating everything themselves right down to the wedding dress and bouquets. This extends further to bridal gowns and accessories- instead of leaving an off the rack gown as they bought it, Australian brides are adding sleeves, coloured belts, crystal brooches. For some weddings, the bridesmaids are being given a colour and asked to choose their own dresses. Grooms are adding fun bow ties and pocket squares and even the ceremonies are involving less traditional moments and more words that tell a story of who they are as a couple. For Australian brides and grooms customising their wedding day, allows them to tell the wider world that ‘as a couple, this is who we are’. – [Ms. PolkaDot – Polka Dot Bride]

6. Fabulous Florals

Of course for the 2013 wedding trend, I have to speak on the wedding flowers. For Spring 2013, I think we’ll see soft shades of yellows mixed with grays and lots of pastels for the romantic look and feel. Come summer, get ready for over-sized and brightly colored blooms. Picture lush coral or hot pink peonies tied together with lots of pretty ribbons. Also, the “just picked from the garden” look and feel hand tied bouquet and lush centerpieces will always be a favorite. And, let’s not forget to use lots of texture by incorporating fruits, grasses, pods, berries and succulents. I hope we’ll also see more of the monochromatic bouquets. We can achieve this look with a lush bouquet of pretty tulips, ranunculus and garden roses. These pretty blooms come in a variety of gorgeous colors and would be the perfect on your wedding day. And for the DIY bride, let’s not forget all the vibrant color summer blooms at the farmer’s market. To tie the look all together, lots of pretty ribbons and lace around the bouquet handle. – [Janie, The Bride’s Cafe]

5. Economy & Technology Drive Choices

The economy will continue to play a large part in how brides and grooms approach planning and vendors. Couples are becoming increasingly selective in a world of more and more options. Online tools and apps like Pinterest propel the availability of creative ideas while social media continues to bring the bride and vendor closer advancing trust and educating both. I sense that we are seeing the trade off of super trendy, bling drenched wed-to-impress affairs for more intimate uncomplicated celebrations that are personal to their families, lives, values and pocketbook. – [Mindy, TweetMyWedding]

4. Birds of a feather

I predict the hot wedding trend for 2013 goes to the birds! We’ve seen bird themed weddings grow in popularity in 2012, but expect to see an increase in bird-themed everything throughout 2013, particularly in the spring. Some examples include tossing bird seed, bird cages as card holders, bird themed invitations, and bird’s nest favors (complete with blue Jordan almond ‘eggs’). Look for bird necklaces, particularly ones with a minimalist look (like single feather pendants or tiny sparrows), both of which are popular and make great gifts for bridesmaids and flower girls. We’re also seeing an increase in feather-inspired hair accessories (like veils and fascinators) to subtly tie in the theme. Fans of Portlandia will revel in this wedding theme, as couples everywhere will find a way to “put a bird on it”. (I couldn’t resist.) – [Emma, EmmalineBride]

3. DIY attire

On the do-it-yourself front, I predict couples will choose projects that are more advanced skill-wise and require bigger budget and/or time commitments than they have in recent years. Much of DIY for the last few seasons has been focused on quick and inexpensive but we’re really seeing a swing towards more challenging and sophisticated projects. On the top of the list, I think we’ll see a lot of DIY attire: handmade bridal gowns and accessories, custom ties and pocket squares for the groomsmen, revamped and upcycled clothing. Shows like Project Runway have certainly fueled an interest in clothing construction and, therefore, sewing. Jewelry-making, especially the advanced techniques like metalsmithing, intricate beading, and metal clays, has been trending in the mainstream craft world for well over a year now and I think we’ll definitely see DIYers embrace these new trends and skill sets wedding world in 2013. – [Khris, DIY Bride]

2. Low Key soirees

2012 was the year of the detail-heavy ‘blogworthy’ wedding. Bunting, cupcakes, tents, tipis, mason jars, bicycles covered in flowers… it was the year of weddings with lots of ‘stuff’. With so much wedding inspiration around on wedding blogs, I think that engaged couples are starting to feel a certain amount of pressure to make sure they have the right ‘stuff’ for their day – to make it look a certain way, or have certain things. So my prediction for 2013 would be that couples will start to rebel and we’ll see a lot more low key weddings – elopements, small family gatherings, less pressure and less ‘stuff’. Weddings taking inspiration from nature and the natural elements around their chosen venue will dominate rather than adding lots and lots of extra ‘things’. – [Kat, Rock n Roll Bride]

1. Food Truck Frenzy

In the last year or so I’ve seen a great increase in new and interesting gourmet Food Truck companies popping up and I think these kitchens on wheels are going to have a big presence in weddings in 2013. Not only is it cool and different but it’s also convenient! Imagine a gourmet hot dog or grilled cheese truck providing your guests with good eats at your laid-back park wedding, or an ice cream truck delivering delicious homemade ice cream sandwiches as a late night snack. There are food trucks for every type of food you could imagine, you could even hire a few different ones for your guests to have their pick! It’s sure to be a fun way to feed your guests that they will be talking about for years to come. – [Jessica, The Budget Savvy Bride]

STEP 1: Remove the marshmallows, chocolate and graham crackers from their original packaging and put them in cellophane bags. Here we put six graham cracker squares in a 4″ x 6″ bag, Three chocolate squares in a 5″ x 3″ bag, and about 10 marshmallows in a 5.5″ x 8″ bag.

STEP 2: With the wire cutters, cut off the head of the hanger and then bend the hanger in fourths so it fits the length of the box. Secure it with ribbon.

STEP 3: Print out the labels on adhesive paper and instructions on cardstock and cut them out. Fold up the instructions.

STEP 4: Lining the box with a piece of tissue, assemble the marshmallows, crackers, chocolate, instructions and hanger in the box.